UNIZIK Expels Student for Assaulting Lecturer, Cites Gross Misconduct
The management of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) in Awka, Anambra State, has expelled a student, Goddy-Mbakwe Chimamaka Precious, for physically assaulting a lecturer from the Department of Theatre and Film Studies. The decision was announced in an official expulsion letter dated February 13, 2025, and signed by the Acting Registrar, Mr. Victor I. Modebelu.
The university stated that the expulsion followed a recommendation by the Student Disciplinary Committee, which found Precious guilty of gross misconduct under Regulation 4 of the Students Disciplinary Regulations (SDR). The incident, which was captured in a viral video, showed the student engaging in a physical altercation with the lecturer, Dr. Chukwudi Okoye.
The conflict reportedly began when Dr. Okoye interrupted the student’s video recording at the entrance of a lecture hall, as she was blocking the pathway. This led to a heated argument that escalated into a physical confrontation.
The expulsion letter read, “The Acting Vice-Chancellor has received the report from the Student Disciplinary Committee on the case of your assault on a lecturer from the Department of Theatre and Film Studies, which was found to be a gross misconduct and violation of the Students Disciplinary Regulations, particularly Regulation 4 (SDR). Consequently, the Acting Vice-Chancellor has, on behalf of the University Senate, approved the Committee’s recommendation that you be expelled, and you are hereby expelled from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka. The expulsion takes immediate effect.”
The letter further directed the student to vacate the university premises immediately and return any university property in her possession.
The Viral Incident
In the video circulating online, the student was seen dancing and recording herself at the entrance of a campus building. As Dr. Okoye attempted to pass, he tapped her on the shoulder to make way. The student, visibly upset, questioned why she was touched in such a manner.
The situation escalated when Dr. Okoye overheard the student insulting him and returned to confront her. Upon noticing she was recording, he attempted to seize her phone, leading to a physical struggle. During the altercation, the student bit the lecturer multiple times and tore his clothes.
In a statement shared on social media, Dr. Okoye recounted the incident, stating, “I tapped her slightly and asked her to excuse me as I walked past. After a few steps, I heard her say, ‘Who does this man think he is?’ I walked back to ensure she deleted the video showing me passing by. When I reached for her phone, she bit me on both arms and tore my clothes.”
Student’s Version of Events
In her own account, titled “My Own Side of the Story,” the student claimed she felt disrespected and assaulted by the lecturer. She stated, “I was recording a video when I felt a push from my left side. When I turned around, I saw a man—later identified as a lecturer—who had pushed me. I felt helpless and disrespected.”
She further alleged that the lecturer attempted to grab her phone, leading to a struggle during which her dress was torn. “In a moment of desperation, I bit his hand to free myself. I never intended to disrespect a lecturer; I was acting in self-defense,” she said.
The student expressed regret over the incident but maintained that she was protecting her dignity as a woman.
University’s Response
The Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Joseph I. Ikechebelu, had earlier ordered a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident. The university’s decision to expel the student underscores its commitment to maintaining discipline and respect within the academic community.
The incident has sparked mixed reactions on social media, with some supporting the university’s decision and others calling for a more nuanced approach to resolving conflicts between students and staff.
As the university moves forward, the case serves as a reminder of the importance of mutual respect and adherence to institutional regulations in maintaining a conducive learning environment.